Washington § 4.24.040 - Action for negligently permitting fire to spread.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.040 — Action for negligently permitting fire to spread., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4.24.040. Action for negligently permitting fire to spread.

Except as provided in RCW 76.04.760, if any person shall for any lawful purpose kindle a fire upon his or her own land, he or she shall do it at such time and in such manner, and shall take such care of it to prevent it from spreading and doing damage to other persons' property, as a prudent and careful person would do, and if he or she fails so to do he or she shall be liable in an action on the case to any person suffering damage thereby to the full amount of such damage.
[ 2014 c 81 s 2; 2009 c 549 s 1001; Code 1881 s 1226; 1877 p 300 s 3; RRS s 5647.]

Notes

Reviser's note: The words "on the case" appear in the 1877 law and in the 1881 enrolled bill but were inadvertently omitted from the printed Code of 1881. See also Pettigrew v. McCoy-Loggie Timber Co., 138 Wash. 619, 245 P. 22 (1926).
Authority of chapter—Application—2014 c 81: See notes following RCW 76.04.760.
Arson, reckless burning, and malicious mischief: Chapter 9A.48 RCW.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 4.24.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.040 cover?

Section 4.24.040 ("Action for negligently permitting fire to spread.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 4.24.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.040" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 4.24.040 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.